A British expatriate residing in Bordeaux expressed concern over the strong smell of smoke permeating her flat as wildfires approached within close proximity to the French city. Karen Kissane, 51, originally from Newcastle, had been vacationing in Barcelona when she received distressing reports about firefighters struggling to control the encroaching wildfire near her residence of the past six years. Upon returning to Bordeaux, Karen described the atmosphere as unsettling, with a pervasive odor of smoke lingering in the air.
Karen shared her experience with a news outlet, stating, “We are venturing outside just to breathe fresh air because the fires are worrisome, and the air quality is unpleasant. Currently, my apartment carries a distinct burning scent despite closed windows and doors, making it challenging for us to sleep. Upon opening the front door, I noticed ash particles in the entryway, indicating the presence of ash in the air.”
Initially uncertain about returning home due to conflicting information online, Karen eventually opted to fly back to Bordeaux, where she was immediately struck by the intense smell of burning in the air upon disembarking the plane. She observed the hot, humid conditions and windy weather spreading the scent of smoke in the air, heightening her concern for the potential rapid spread of the fires, especially given her central location in Bordeaux.
The ongoing struggle of French firefighters to contain massive blazes following recurrent heatwaves this summer has raised alarm across the country. With a significant British population residing in southern France, totaling between 65,000 to 70,000 individuals, evacuation warnings have been issued, urging holidaymakers to avoid Bordeaux and surrounding areas experiencing evacuations.
Sophie Brocas, the prefect for Nouvelle-Aquitaine, advised tourists against visiting the region until the situation stabilizes, suggesting alternative destinations for those already present. Karen shared her vigilance in monitoring the evolving situation and readiness to relocate with her two teenage children to a safer location north of Bordeaux if circumstances deteriorate abruptly. She emphasized prioritizing her family’s safety amid the unpredictable nature of the ongoing crisis.
Amid reports of friends evacuating holiday properties in areas heavily impacted by the fires, Karen highlighted the urgency and severity of the situation, cautioning against holidaying in high-risk zones. The Foreign Office issued updated travel guidance, warning of potential restrictions and evacuations in affected regions, urging travelers to follow local authorities’ instructions and stay informed.
As uncertainties loom over Bordeaux and neighboring regions grappling with wildfires, Karen’s proactive approach to safeguarding her family underscores the gravity of the situation and the necessity for swift decision-making in the face of escalating environmental threats.
